How a Halloween Prank Can Turn Into a Criminal Charge

Some Halloween pranks may be illegal, even when they have no bad intentions. Teens who get into the holiday spirit may go out and cause mischief with their friends. Depending on the type of mischief, they may be charged with a crime. Some charges may drop once the teen turns 18 but some can follow them through life.

Common Crimes that Teens Commit On/Around Halloween

These are some of the most common crimes that teens commit on or around Halloween:

• Criminal destruction: Teens who vandalize or tag properties may be charged with criminal destruction. In addition to having to pay restitution, teens may also be left with a criminal record.
• Theft: Teens who steal street signs or Halloween decorations may be charged with shoplifting or theft.
• Possession of alcohol/drugs: Teens who engage in underage drinking could be charged with minor in possession.
• Breaking curfew: Some cities within New Jersey enact curfews the night before Halloween and Halloween night. Breaking curfew could lead to charges.

These are just a few of the most common charges that occur around Halloween. The biggest problem with many of these charges is that teens don’t always realize the severity of their mistakes. They may think they’re having a little fun on Halloween with friends, not realizing that some charges may affect their future.

Potential Consequences from Halloween Crime

The charges that a teen receives vary, depending on their age, details of the crime, and if they have a prior criminal record. Some crimes may lead to fines and restitution. Other crimes may lead to suspension or expulsion from school. Permanent criminal charges may affect a teen’s future, including where they can attend college or what careers they can pursue.

Some teens may also be required to spend time in a juvenile detention center. This may lead to them being fired from their job or kicked out of their school. While teens may not realize the implications of their mistakes, most parents do. Ignoring criminal charges is never a good idea.

How a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Help Your Case

If your teen is charged this Halloween, one of the first things you should do is contact a criminal defense lawyer. Your lawyer may be able to get your teen out of jail while you consider a defense strategy that works. New Jersey also has first-time offender programs that may mean your teen can avoid juvenile detention in return for attending alcohol or drug classes.

Community service may also be an option, depending on the crime. Some judges may be willing to offer community service as a learning opportunity for teens who engage in theft or vandalism. Either way, it’s important to consider your options as soon as possible. With your teen’s whole future at risk, it’s crucial to build a defense now.

With Halloween right around the corner, now is a good time to talk to your teen about the potential for legal consequences if they make bad decisions. Try to know your teen’s whereabouts and check up on them as needed to keep them safe and charge-free this Halloween.

Contact an Experienced Burlington County Criminal Defense Lawyer About Your Teen’s Criminal Charges in Camden County

Was your teen arrested or charged with a crime in New Jersey? The consequences of a conviction could be severe, leaving you with a permanent criminal record and possibly even sending you to jail. That is why you need to speak with a qualified criminal defense attorney as soon as possible about your case. The attorneys at Attorneys Hartman, Chartered have successfully represented clients charged with a crime in Mt. Holly, Cherry Hill, Moorestown, Marlton, and throughout New Jersey. Call 856-393-6073 or fill out the online contact form to schedule a consultation with a member of our legal team. We have an office conveniently located at 68 E Main St, Moorestown, NJ 08057.

The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.

Disorderly conduct consists of any improper behavior such as fighting, threats of violence, or creating a dangerous atmosphere.